“Our research shows that since 2000, a quarter of all fatal drownings in Victorian irrigation channels occurred in May,” Life Saving Victoria’s Hannah Calverley said.
“Irrigation channels may look calm but can have strong undercurrents, submerged objects, hidden pipes, weeds and debris, varying depths, regulator gates that can open and close quickly, drains and even submerged trees, sandbars and rocks.
“They can also have steep and slippery banks which could turn a slip or a trip into a drowning fatality.”
Farmsafe Australia’s Safer Farms Report stated drowning accounted for an average of three per cent of on-farm work related fatalities in Australia, while recent numbers from AgHealth Australia showed drowning fatalities contributed to 31 per cent of all child fatalities on farms.
Dr Calverley said there were simple steps that could be taken to prevent tragedy.
“Be aware of waterways such as dams, irrigation channels, lakes and more on rural properties and remain vigilant in those settings,” she said.
“Prevention is the best way to avoid disaster; wherever possible ensure that bodies of water are fenced off and gates are working and never propped open.
“Carers should also set designated supervisors to ensure there is no confusion about who is keeping watch of children in and around water.
“Active adult supervision means observing without any distractions — that includes checking phones or attending to other children.
“Twenty seconds and a few centimetres of water is all it takes for a toddler to drown. Always keep kids under five within arm’s reach around water and kids over five within eyesight.
“It’s also vital that parents and carers learn CPR and update their skills regularly. This is especially important in remote locations where help might be further away.”
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